The Dresden Dolls art rock cabaret made a stop off in Albuquerque in support of their new release No, Virginia. Several hundred fans dressed in artsy garb and face paint began lining up more than 2 hours before show time to mix and tell stories of previous concerts and compare wardrobes. A Dresden Doll mime roamed the line collecting artifacts from fans as props for the show. Upon entry, the merch booth became a pre show favorite with t-shirts, scarves, cds and signed posters for sale.
The crowd was warmed up by excellent 80’s and 90’s music on the PA. Notably Guns ‘n’ Roses, Joy Division and Beastie Boys. Pacific Northwest faves Smoosh first took the stage after being introduced by the Dolls with a new bass player since I saw them last at Sasquatch 2005. The girls really get into their performance. I noticed at least one new song that I liked as well as standards from their first record.
The Dresden Dolls teased the fans by coming to the front of the stage showing off their circus announcer type costumes. Known for doing covers they did a few bars from a Pink Floyd song before launching into original material from their new record. I was really surprised at the musicianship of both members. Amandas vocals were soaring. The performance did not disappoint and was animated and full of passion. Fans were treated to Amanda coming down into the audience and opener Smoosh joining them for an impromptu jam. A little burlesque touch was added when the merch girl joined them on stage flipping up her skirt to reveal her derriere. Other staff members and fans joined them on stage as well.
After the show the Dresden Dolls signed items for the fans. One lucky fan caught a drum head and he got that signed. One thing for sure is the fans love the Dolls and vice versa. They make themselves available instead of retreating to the safety of their tour bus. Check them out on Youtube as they have several theatrical videos, some reminiscent of the silent film era.
